How to Dress for Aikido

As with any martial arts class, it is important that you dress appropriately for practice. Aikido practitioners typically use a Judo style gi or dogi. The Aikido gi or Judo gi is usually made of reinforced or thick fabric because of the considerable stress endured from techniques that involve grabbing and throwing. Therefore, it may be wise to spend a little extra to purchase a good quality gi.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consult your dojo to insure you buy the required gi. There is some variation from dojo to dojo as to what you should wear for practice. Some dojos require all students to wear a hakama, but most only require women and men of high rank to wear them.

2. Purchase the gi that is appropriate for your dojo. Most students buy their gis online. Buy a properly sized gi to insure maximum mobility.

3. Wear comfortable clothes to class and take your gi with you, so that you may change in the dressing room of the dojo.

4. Put the pants and jacket on over everyday or athletic undergarments. Wrap the front of your jacket left over right.

5. Wrap the belt or obi around your waist twice at hip-bone level, starting with the middle of your belt in the front of your body. Tie the belt in an overhand square knot. Consult another student to make sure you have done it correctly before entering the practice area.

6. Add the hakama, or skirt like pants, to your gi only if your instructor has instructed you to do so. Take care when tying and folding your hakama. Consult with a senior student or instructor on specific instructions about how to care for your hakama.

7. Adjust your gi if it becomes ruffled during practice, before bowing to your partner or returning to listen to your instructor.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your gi about every two practice sessions to avoid unpleasant odors.
• Always turn away from your partner and the front of the dojo before making any adjustment to your gi.

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